Trekking, Volcanoes and Altitude

Modern work patterns and lifestyles have given climbers, trekkers and nature lovers the mobility, time and financial resources to travel worldwide throughout the year. Many rely on commercial companies or individuals to plan and support their endeavours. The professional organisation and implementation of an expedition or trek requires a complex package of skills and expertise.

Over many decades, trained mountain guides have accompanied, served and guided their guests to some of the remotest corners of the earth. The International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations (IFMGA) has provided a forum through which knowledge can be exchanged by its members since its founding in 1965. The IFMGA Technical Committee is responsible for setting the professional standards of its members and ensuring that they are maintained. It also develops training methods and tools to help countries achieve these standards.

This document has been created by the IFMGA Trekking and Expeditions Subcommittee. It forms a policy framework around which member countries and their guides can structure their training and refresher courses. Mountain guides from around the world have been involved in its development and a great deal of practical knowledge and field tested experience can be found within its pages.

It gives guidance aimed at supporting the preparation, organisation and execution of professionally-led treks and expeditions. Specific knowledge required for remote and high-altitude medical care has also been included. It has been drawn together through the hard work and diligence of all subcommittee members.

This document is a valuable reference material for professional mountain guides and will in turn benefit both their clients and their own safety. It is my sincere hope that guides will frequently refer to this document and that as a result the quality of their professional work will continue to improve.

My sincere thanks must go to everyone who has participated in the development of this document, their knowledge and passion have been invaluable. In particular I would like to thank Walter, the president of the subcommittee, for his tireless commitment, dedication and the time that he invests in the IFMGA.